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ROAR!

  • Writer: Melissa Widmaier
    Melissa Widmaier
  • Dec 21, 2025
  • 2 min read

I’ve always had a heart for history, especially ancient and medieval/Renaissance facts and stories. There’s just something about connecting humanity through the ages and learning about cultures through art, science, literature, etc. I even minored in anthropology in college (probably should have majored!). It’s also probably why I lean so heavily into fantasy as well.

So, it should come as no surprise that I would eventually write an historical fantasy novel.

Ladies and gentlemen and smizmars (extra points if you get that reference), I’m proud to reveal the exquisite, shiny, and very fiery cover of The Roses of Carterhaugh. The art and design are from Lisa Errico, Little Forest Cat: https://littleforestcat.co.uk. Check out her other phenomenal illustrations! I couldn’t be more pleased, and I actually wish I could pet the fire lion. 


 


Our tale is set in 1500s Scotland, and it follows the adventures of a clever and headstrong earl’s daughter as she faces down the Queen of the Seelie herself. It’s based on the Tamlyn and Thomas the Rhymer ballads collected by Francis James Child in the 19th century—old folk tales with several variations that were passed down through the ages in Scotland and England.


I have, of course, added my own spin to them, and filled in some gaps to the story where my mind wandered into the what-ifs.


If you are interested in reading an advanced copy of The Roses of Carterhaugh, please fill out the request form here: https://forms.gle/94fi28hp8NSQoLKG7


The official release is March 1, 2026.


I’m excited to share Jonet and Tam’s story with you all, and to give you a little taste of Scottish myth and legend. Until then, slàn leibh and happy reading!



 
 
 

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